One of my group mates had to leave early from the business problems class I attended this week. He mentioned there was a big company announcement at 1:30pm that day he had to help set up (he is the head of our corporate events team), but he wouldn't tell us any details when asked. So, of course, two of us started IMing around to our contacts who might know something about it (Bill's speech writer, PR guys, etc.) but everyone was uncharacteristically tight-lipped. (We're not consistently good about keeping secrets, especially a few hours before an announcement.) So, we had a good time trying to guess what the deal was. We all took a break from the class to watch the webcast.

I can't say I'm surprised that Bill is leaving. We've known this day would come for a long time. I agree with Bill's statement that we're better positioned than ever for this from a leadership perspective. In particular Ray Ozzie has been a great addition to the company; I really like his insight and style so far. (Although I wish he kept his blog up to date...)

Honestly, despite all the amazing things I think Bill accomplished in technology, I suspect history will remember him for the work the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will do. He and Melinda have an unprecendented opportunity to really make a huge difference. I can't wait to see what they do. I'm glad Bill will be focusing his energy on the Foundation's great work.

Still, I found myself getting a bit emotional during the press conference. Microsoft really is Bill's company. I'm proud of what we've accomplished under him and am sad to see him go. Personally, obviously Microsoft has been one of the major influences on my life, forming the framework of my last sixteen years and shaping who I am. It's natural, I think for me to associate a lot of the goodness in my life with Bill and the work he's done. Steve Ballmer is great too, but I didn't really meet him until last week at Strategy Conference. I have "Bill stories" going back throughout my career. This change is even more poignant since I just saw Bill last week, so his presence is fairly immediate for me.

I'm glad that the transition will be an orderly, thoughtful exit. We'll be fine without Bill, but we won't be the same. Should be interesting to see...